Best Outdoor Solar Lights of 2019

Do you hate getting out of your car at night in a pitch black driveway or fumbling through your keys and can’t see a thing? Have you always wanted more lighting on your walkway or driveway, but thought it was going to be expensive? One of the 6 best outdoor solar lights below is the answer to your problems!

Comparison Table

 

Introduction to the World of Solar

Well, today you’ll learn why its’ not only inexpensive, but they will save you money. We are going to provide you with everything you need to know to make the right decision when purchasing the best outdoor Solar Lights. Solar lighting can be used around any home or garden no matter how small or big.

Not only are solar lights, environmentally friendly, but they are cost effective and require absolutely no wiring. One of the best features that exterior solar lighting has is the ability to turn on at dusk and off at daylight to conserve energy through the battery.

6 Best Outdoor Solar Light Reviews

Today you will be able to look at the best outdoor solar lights on the market. We will cover what makes these lights shine above the rest. Lighting features, quality, reliability, and brightness are what set these 5 best selling solar lights apart from their competitors.

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1) URPOWER Solar Lights with Motion Detection

URPOWER offers specialized solar power lights that consist of 4 lights in each package that are lit with 8 LEDs within each light. These motion activated solar powered waterproof lights are known for their brightness. This style light works best when fastened to a fence or deck post post or even the side of a house. 

The light shines from one side of the unit with lighting directed downward. These URPOWER lights can be used to light up dark areas, add lighting to a water feature or pool or to show off a colorful garden at night.

URPOWER solar lights are equipped with larger solar panels which explain the bright, powerful light given off with each unit. These panels are attached with a plastic housing that make it completely rust free and convenient to use. This is a truly wireless solar light, which has no connections. They are equipped with 18500 power lithium-ion battery for long periods of lighting.

You can adjust these lights according to your need and specifications. These URPOWER solar lights are best used for shining on target areas.

FEATURES

Design
The URPOWER solar power light is convenient as it’s equipped with 2 holes that make for easy hanging. This light has a classy high tech design that looks great anywhere it’s used. 

Waterproof
These solar powered lights are made from waterproof material. The connection between light and the solar panel is plastic in nature which eliminates the worry of rust.

Motion Detection
Our favorite feature on the URPOWER SL-002 is the day/night motion sensor. This feature is what makes this the perfect security light. Say goodbye to getting out of your car in a dark driveway or walking up an unlit set of stairs. This outdoor solar security light will give you all the light you need and only when you need it, cutting down on electricity.

 What we like about this URPOWER solar light.

 ✓ Motion Detector.

✓ Waterproof/Weather Resistant

 ✓ 8 LEDs in Each Unit

✓ Motion Detection

Cons

X Inconsistent lighting, doesn’t turn on 100% of the time

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2) URPOWER Solar Lights

URPOWER 2in1 Solar Lights[/easyazon_link]

Once again, URPOWER made the list with its 2 in 1 solar lighting package, which gives you some of the brightest LEDs on our list. The solar panel on this light is fully adjustable, which makes finding the right spot no problem at all.

 These solar lights have an automatic on-off function that enables the device to automatically shut down in the daylight to conserve power than automatically switch back on at night.  The whole solar light is very convenient and easy to install in any location. The URPOWER 2in1 is an intense light. You can place it directly on your lawn, front door, back yard, near flower beds, or poolside. Designed to be used on the ground with included pole, or mounted from above on a structure or pole. In fact, the weather-resistant material makes it convenient to use all year round.

 Features

• The design
  The URPOWER 2in1 light contains a compact, portable, and wireless design. You can easily place where you want.

• Material
  The URPOWER 2in1 light contains a lightweight but sturdy material that can easily handle the hard weather climate.

• Solar Panel
  The whole lightening system is equipped with a reliable solar panel that stores the sunlight and converts it to electric power.

• 2in1 function
  Yes the URPOWER solar light is available in 2in1 features you can place the solar lamp directly to ground and mount it on the wall for perfect usage.

Pros

✓ Wireless

✓ Solar-powered.

✓ Safe and secure.

✓ 2in1 functions for placement.

✓ Twelve hours usage in full charge.Water-proof and weather resistant

Cons

X The URPOWER 2in1 is available in a single color.

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5) Garden Bliss Best Solar Lights

bright enough and they can’t be directed to a specific area. The atmosphere created by these low watt lights to create a cozy inviting atmosphere. The impressive dim and smoky lens provides enough light to light a walkway for safe travel.

What we loved about these lights were the options for height when installing, they allow for 8 inch or 12 inch lighting. This comes in handy if you put them around taller flowers or grass in the garden. 

 Garden Bliss Solar Lights are entirely weather-resistant, dustproof and waterproof. The durable ground spikes easily hold in the ground. These are portable and compact spikes that look great in a variety of areas.

Features

•   Weather and water-resistant
  The plastic material makes it safe and secure from harsh weather. You can safely use solar lights during rain and sunny weather. 
• Automatic function
  The automatic functionality will save on battery power by shutting off in daylight and turning on at night.

Pros

✓ Safe and secure.

✓ Sturdy plastic material.

✓10 Elegant lights per package.

✓ Auto on-off 

✓ Waterproof, weather resistant material.

Cons 

X  Short overall life span

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6)Deneve Solar Flagpole Downlight

If you’re wondering what the brightest solar lights are? Look no further. This flag pole light made by Deneve is a high quality solar light that is over 1,000 lumens. Yes, we realize this is a solar light has a very specific use, but when couldn’t leave this one out.

This light is by far is the brightest outdoor solar light measuring an astonishing 1300 Lumens! This type of solar light is made to sit at the top of your flag pole and shine down to light up the flag automatically when the sun begins to set.

Features

✓ Super Bright Light Made to Last

✓ 1400 Lumens 

✓ No tool installation

✓ 26 LEDs for optimum brightness

Cons

X Fits MOST flag poles so check the specifications before ordering.

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Solar Lighting Buyers Guide

How Solar Power Lights Work

Normally the process of solar power systems is carried through by using the lenses or mirrors and a specific tracking system to observe an area of sunlight into a small beam. Solar powered lighting can be used in exactly the same way that electric lighting can be used, as long as your panels have access to sunlight. When light charges the battery in a solar powered light it is stored until needed, allowing the lights to work when there is no light. This article goes into great detail on how solar lighting works.

When reviewing solar lighting, we noticed that there are lights that claim to be brighter than the lights we reviewed that we tested. Just because a solar light claims to have the highest Lumens, doesn’t by any means correlate with being the best. 

Unfortunately, those lights did not make our list because of either poor quality or the failure to work correctly. We did the research and testing so you are able to purchase one of the best solar lights with confidence.

For more tips on making your outdoor space better check out https://ift.tt/33M1zqI

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Landscape Tips To Enhance Curb Appeal

Introduction to Water Gardening

Smart Tips for Building the Perfect Garden Shed

The Best Home Remedy For Cold & Flu

How to Create a Low-Maintenance Home Landscape

If you’re like most homeowners, you take pride in your homes curb appeal, but not everyone wants to spend their weekends doing yard work. There are many options you can choose from to make your landscaping workload easier this spring and throughout the rest of the year. By making some smart decisions, you can have the curb appeal that you want without having to spend a lot of time or money on regular care. Check out these ideas for creating a low-maintenance landscape.

Lay Down Weed Barrier

Before spring planting, you should start by preparing your garden with a weed barrier. A  weed barrier is a fabric that is placed over your planting beds to reduce weed growth. These fabric barriers come in different dimensions and thicknesses. Denser pieces are more expensive but higher quality. To start, prepare your soil with any additives you would normally use. Rake and flatten the ground and lay the fabric down.

Use gardening pins or staples to hold the material in place. If you are using garden edging, you can tuck the fabric into the ground snugly to hold it in place. Once you are happy with the placement, you are ready to plant. You must first cut a the fabric where you want to plant using a knife or scissors. Make sure your cut is large enough to accommodate your plant. Now you can look forward to spending a lot less time pulling weeds.

Perennials and Annuals

If you want to cut down on the amount of yard work you need to do, plant low-maintenance, drought-tolerant flowers and shrubs. Perennials require less attention than annuals. Perennials are plants that go dormant in the winter and regenerate in the spring. Perennials are a popular choice because they come back each year. They also come in a wide variety of colors and bloom periods.

Annuals are beautiful flowering plants and shrubs that die at the end of the season. The benefit of annuals is the ability to flower for longer periods, some lasting the entire summer. You probably want to use those sparingly although they add brilliant color and fragrance to your flowerbed. if you want to maintain your yard’s look year after year with minimal work, stick with perennials.

Some varieties are drought-resistant which is good for more arid areas, and others repel bugs and wildlife that would otherwise eat your stems clean. Check with your local garden center for the best plants for your planting zone. You might consider a professional garden designer to lay out your space, making smart choices and tweaking the design to your liking. The landscaping professional doesn’t have to do the installation, but they can give you a rendering of their ideas. You can do the planting yourself and save money that way.

Install an Automatic Watering System

If you’re a homeowner or landlord who is unable to spend a lot of time keeping track of watering times and usage, try using equipment that is self-sufficient. An irrigation system with a timer is a good choice. You can set the system to start and stop at the optimal times of day. Another great feature is adding a water sensor to avoid wasting water after it rains.

Sometimes building your irrigation system can be tough, so hiring  an irrigation specialist might be best. Although the system might seem costly up front, the initial investment is worth the long term benefits. Many communities in the southern states have watering restrictions, and you can incur some hefty fines by not adhering to regulations. Automatic sprinkler systems give you a break from having to manually keep track of watering days and times, making it easy to follow the rules set up by your city.

Use Mulch

Putting mulch in your garden is another way to cut down on the time you’ll need to spend weeding, watering and fertilizing. Landscape suppliers recommend mulch because mulch inhibits weed growth, keeps the soil from drying out quickly, and increases the amount of soil in your beds via decomposition; this process feeds acid-loving plants, such as trees and shrubs. Bark mulch is the most popular, plentiful and least expensive type of mulch. You can also use chopped-rubber mulch that will not decompose but still gives you the ground cover you are seeking. Some gardeners use rocks or pea stone that are a striking contrast to the surrounding plantings.

Plant Succulents

Another low-maintenance option is the use of succulents. These plants are different in that their leaves and stems are adapted to be fleshy and retain water, making them resistant to drought and disease. These plants work extremely well in drought areas. 

They also come in different sizes, colors and shapes. Many spread and make an excellent ground cover. In addition to helping you cut down on how often you need to water your yard, succulents intertwined with other plants fill in gaps and add beautiful texture to any garden.

Try Hardscaping

Sometimes it’s preferable to minimize the amount of grass and other plants in an outdoor space, and it will certainly save you time and money. In desert states, homeowners often incorporate xeriscaping. Xeriscaping is common in areas where there is little to no rainfall. You won’t see lush green lawns here, only yards requiring no irrigation.

A beautiful and functional alternative is adding a small patio to the front yard. Pavers and bricks come in all shapes and sizes and make unique focal points. Why not add a fountain or fire pit to the mix? These days, it’s common for friends and neighbors to enjoy hanging out around a fire pit or patio.

Consider Artificial Turf

For true no-maintenance landscaping, there is always artificial or synthetic turf. Don’t mistake this with the indoor/outdoor carpeting of the 70s. Although it is expensive, look at it from a cost-saving perspective. No mowing, fertilizing, watering or pest control is necessary with artificial turf. A lawn of synthetic turf can last up to 20 years in a low-traffic area. The grass blades are UV treated so that they won’t fade in the sun. You’ll have the greenest grass in the neighborhood, and a leaf blower is all you need for a quick cleanup. Although it doesn’t feel like real grass, it will feel soft and supple under your feet.

No matter how you plan to minimize the effort you need to put some effort into keeping up your home’s curb appeal, you can always find ways to make your yard interesting with minimal effort. With a little forethought and planning, you can enjoy a beautiful front yard that doesn’t require a lot of time or money to maintain.

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Simple Ways to Improve the Curb Appeal of Your Lawn and Garden

5 Tricks to Making Your Garden More Weed-Resistant

Imagine that you spend hours planting a beautiful rose garden, only to watch with dismay as it’s overrun by weeds a week later. Weeds are a ruthless enemy of many gardeners, and for a good reason, as they can quickly kill off plants and cost hours’ worth of labor time. But with these five tips to stave off weeds, you can win the fight against these troublesome intruders.

Crowd Them Out

Plants need a certain amount of space between their neighbors for optimal growth. Weeds won’t grow if they can’t get sunlight. Therefore, consider getting plants that require minimal spacing. Planting them close together creates a shadow over the open area that they share. This shade prevents weed growth.

Keep Weeds in the Dark

Weeds need access to sunlight to germinate. Digging up your garden bed to plant your new spring flowers can also churn up weed seeds embedded deep in the ground. Only now that the weeds are close to the surface can they start to grow. Therefore, experts recommend only digging precisely where you’re putting your plants to avoid disturbing latent weeds.

Lay Down Organic Mulch

The mulch that you use can affect weed growth in addition to plant growth. Ideally, you should put down about two inches of organic mulch in your garden before planting your flowers. The mulch gives plants the vital nutrients and temperature regulation that they need to grow. It also suffocates weed seeds and makes it harder for young weeds to grow. Be sure to get organic mulch, as non-organic mulch isn’t as healthy for the plants that you want to have growing in your garden.

Use Landscape Bedding

One of the uses of landscaping fabric among gardeners is weed control. Putting down landscaping beds made of porous black fabrics give you a double advantage by promoting plant growth and killing off weeds. Porous beds enable the exchange of nutrients, gas, and water, which are essential for plant growth. However, they block sunlight from getting to weed seeds, which ultimately inhibits their growth.

Behead Pesky Weeds

Sometimes, it’s not possible to remove an entire part of the weed. Or you might have so many that you can’t possibly uproot them all at once. In this case, you can lop off their heads. Dead-heading weeds prevents them from spreading their seeds on the wind or through pollinators. While this doesn’t kill an existing weed, it prevents weeds from germinating and stops future weed growth.

When you consider the amount of time you spend gardening versus weeding, chances are good that time favors the latter. Worse yet, you might be losing the war against these green garden invaders! But by keeping these weeding tips in mind, you can look forward to having time to enjoy the fruits (and flowers) of your labor.

For more great tips and tricks like this, check out our Help in the Garden section! We know you won’t be disappointed!

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5 Plants You Need in Your Herb Garden

An herb garden is a useful and beautiful addition to any home. Whether indoors or outdoors, an herb garden can elevate home-cooked meals, freshen up drinks, save money and add cheerful, fragrant bursts of color. Many herbs are easy to grow and quickly reach the stage where they can be trimmed for use. The following five plants are must-haves in any herb garden.

Rosemary

Rosemary can grow to be a pretty shrub or hedge, or it can be grown in a container on a windowsill or porch. With its tiny blue flowers, it can be used as an ornamental plant, but it is probably most known in the kitchen. It is commonly used in recipes like roast chicken, lamb and potatoes. It is also a fine addition to stews, breads and biscuits. It is a hardy plant that is easy to grow, and can last through the winter in many areas.

Sage

Sage grows well in most climates and if trimmed properly in fall, it will come back in the spring. The herb has a strong flavor and is commonly used in stews, stuffing, sausages and different breads. With many colorful varieties to choose from, sage is often used as a pretty filler plant in many gardens. This herb is high and antioxidants and was used by ancient Egyptians for fertility.  A 2017 review published in the journal Drugs noted sage’s potential to “enhance cognitive activity and protect against neurodegenerative disease,” including Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Chives

Fresh chives liven up a nice garlic bread as well as salads, sauces, vegetables, potatoes and cheese dishes. Chives start easily from seeds and regrow every spring. Leaves can be snipped off as needed from the bulbs. Chives bloom into pretty little purple flowers and make an attractive addition to any garden. Chives are closely related to the scallion and leak family and are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

Chamomile

Chamomile adds attractive cheer to any garden in addition to making great teas. According to doTERRA, chamomile can have a calming effect on the mind and body, making it perfect for relaxing after a long day. This legendary herb grows easily from seed in most climates and needs little maintenance once established. Chamomile has been used in many ailments such as hay fever, inflammation,  menstrual disorders, insomnia, gastrointestinal disorders and rheumatic pain. It is one of the most ancient medicinal herbs kown to man.

Lavender

With more than 40 varieties to choose from, lavender fits into any herb garden. The flowers come in blue, purple, pink or white. Lavender can be a soothing addition to tea, or it can be substituted for rosemary in breads. It can also be a classy addition to cakes or cookies. It can garnish a flute of champagne or add a hint of mystery to wine sauces. Dried lavender can also be used as a natural moth-repellent in closets where sweaters are stored.

Rosemary, sage, chives, chamomile and lavender make beautiful and useful additions to any herb garden. These five herbs are easy to grow and quick to reach a state where harvest is possible. For more fun plants to try in your garden, check out our Lawn and Plants section!

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A Quick and Dirty Guide to Using Manure in Your Garden

Manure is one of the richest sources of fertilizer. It can be a great way to amend the soil in your garden. The trick to using manure is to use the right type, be aware of safety concerns, and use it at the right time.

Using Manure Safely

Fresh manure should never be used near edible plants because it’s rich in bacteria and nitrogen. Manure should be aged to kill the pathogens. This process takes 6 to 12 months for the manure to age into a powdery material that’s dry but still nutrient-rich with no smell.

You should also wait 120 days after applying any manure before harvesting edible crops. Don’t use manure from pigs, cats, dogs, or other humans because the manure likely contains dangerous pathogens that can infect humans.

How to Use Manure

Manure should be mixed thoroughly into the soil, not thrown on top. The most effective way to apply it is mixing it with a quality compost. Than it’s best to work it into the top 4 inches of the soil with a tiller.

Fresh manure should be applied in the fall so that it has time to compost before spring. Aged manure can be applied in the early spring before the growing season. You can check out our review of the best tillers here.

Where to Find Manure

There are several sources of quality manure. One option is packaged manure, which you can get in a bag from a local feed or in some gardening/home improvement stores. Just make sure it’s fully composted and pathogen-free.

Many gardeners, however, choose to buy manure locally at a farm. This option gives you the best control over any herbicides or pesticides in the manure as the farm will know what has been used to make it.

Choosing Quality Manure

When selecting manure for your garden, remember that not all manures are created equally. For example, what the animals ate affects manure quality. The more grass the animal eats, the lower the amount of nitrogen in their manure.

Some manure, especially from large herbivores like cows, has the perfect ratio of carbon to nitrogen (25:1). So you won’t over-fertilize and “burn” your plants. This is called “cool” manure as opposed to “hot” manure from pigs. This type has so much nitrogen and needs to be composted with leaves and other carbon-rich sources.

You’ll also want to know what else is in the manure. It’s not uncommon for herbicides to be found in manure that can kill your plants. Ask the manure supplier if the animals fed on grass treated with weed killers or other chemicals or check the bag if buying from a store.

While manure is an excellent soil amendment, make sure you regularly test your garden soil to avoid a buildup of phosphorus. You will also need to follow necessary safety steps to reduce the health risks of using manure for a garden with edible plants. Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to having a happy healthy garden.

Resources:

Guidelines for Using Animal Manures and Manure-Based Composts in the Garden

Get a Load of Our Manure Guide

Feed Type Greatly Affects Your Manure Quality

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4 Strategies to Protect Your Vegetable Garden From Pests

We have plenty of tips on spring gardening, but we wanted to elaborate on one important tip—keeping pests out. Gardens take sweat and energy to come to life. There is nothing worse than putting in the hard work and someone else reaping the benefits, namely pests. Your vegetables are yours to give away, and not for thieving animals to take. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to reduce thieves from stealing your bounty. Here are four strategies you can take to protect your garden.

4 Ways to Protect Your Vegetable Garden

1. Vinegar Spray

Making a spray of 50% white vinegar and 50% water works to keep pests at bay. The animals don’t like the smell (to be clear, most humans don’t either). Reapply the mixture after a rainfall. You can even spray rags heavily to hang in the vegetable garden for a stronger scent.

2. Human Hair

Stop throwing away your hair when you clean out your brush. Placing human hair in and around your garden deters pests. The animals smell human and are warned to stay away. It may take some time to collect enough hair to make a difference, so keep a bag handy in the bathroom for when you clean out your hair brush and tell your family members and friends to do so too.

3. Fencing

Building a vinyl fence can be very effective in keeping vegetable-thieving animals away from your garden. For a once-and-done application, fences are fantastic for keeping pests away. As you shop for fencing materials, make sure that the fencing is tall enough and the holes are small enough for this project. You also don’t want fencing that blocks your sunlight. Fencing is also a super effective way to prevent thieves.

4. Fido

The family dog is sometimes an excellent way to keep pests out of your garden—as the scent and presence of a dog will often deter other animals from entering your yard. However, this will largely depend on your pet’s personality. In some cases, dogs actually become the pest by trampling the garden and digging up bulbs. Whereas, other dogs are less interested in the garden and spend more time chasing pests away. Proper training and an understanding of your dog’s personality is key to determining if they will be effective pest control.

Where you live and how close you are to wildlife makes a difference in which deterrent will be best for your vegetable garden. Having a combination of ways to repel these pests increases your chances of success. Building a fence to keep out vegetable-thieving animals is the best way to be 100% sure of your harvest. Happy Gardening!

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5 Medicinal Plants You Can Grow Right in Your Garden

For thousands of years, herbs and plants have featured prominently in traditional and folk medicine around the world. The healing properties of plants have garnered great attention in recent years, with many of these plants making their way into home gardens for personal use. Easy to grow and utilize, here are five medicinal plants you can add to your garden this year.

Comfrey

This perennial herb that produces clusters of small bell-shaped blooms is also called boneset or knitbone due to its reported use in the treatment of broken bones. It contains allantoin, a chemical compound that is an anti-irritant and aids in wound healing. It is also reportedly beneficial in the treatment of arthritis. The most common cultivar is Russian comfrey, Symphytum × uplandicum, as is recommended for topical use only.

Wild Bergamot

Wild Bergamot, Monarda fistulosa, not only has medicinal uses, but also attracts bees, hummingbirds and butterflies to a garden. Native Americans utilized the plant to treat infections and digestive problems.  As it is said they possess both anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. The lavender flowers are also quite flavorful and can be added to fresh herb sauces and salads.

Echinacea (Purple Coneflower)

This herbaceous perennial, reported to possess immune-boosting properties, is easy to grow and drought-tolerant. It was used by Native American Plains tribes to treat cold symptoms, including sore throat, coughing, pain and fever. One analysis in 2016, did report that use of Echinacea reduced the risk of repeated respiratory infections.

Tribulus terrestris

Also called caltrop, bullhead, goathead, Mexican sandbur, Texas sandbur and puncture vine, Tribulus terrestris is a plant used in both Chinese traditional and Indian Ayurveda medicines. It enhances the libido, aids in the reduction of swelling and has been shown to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels in people with Type 2 Diabetes.

Peppermint

One of the oldest medicinal herbs used by man, peppermint has many beneficial qualities. Whether ingested, as a part of aromatherapy or as a topical solution both are beneficial. Peppermint tea can calm the stomach, while peppermint oil has been shown to the relieve the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The oil can also be used topically to treat headaches and muscle pain.

Whether they’re growing in containers on an urban patio, in pots on a rack inside the house, or in a larger garden, these five plants should get you started toward a healthier you, especially when paired with the fresh air and exercise that gardening provides.

References:

https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-295/comfrey

https://www.westcoastseeds.com/how-to-grow-guides/grow-bergamot/

https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/10-impressive-echinacea-benefits-support-health/

https://www.vaxxenlabs.com/tribulus-terrestris-side-effects/

https://bonnieplants.com/product/peppermint/

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Backyard Safety Tips to Protect Your Toddler from the Great Outdoors

Playing outside is healthy for even the youngest children. Getting out in nature will benefit your child in many ways. Children who play outside are healthier, happier, more creative, and have better social skills. When playing outside it’s important to educate you and your little ones on backyard safety

Before you let your toddler play outside, there are important safety measures you need to take. When you follow these easy guidelines, you will be able to give your toddler a rich outdoor experience without worrying about injuries or accidents.

Choose Plants Wisely

When you are landscaping your yard with an eye toward letting toddlers play outside, make sure your plants are as non-toxic as possible. For example, do not plant anything with enticing berries. Try to minimize the impact of thorns and tangling vines.

In addition to protecting your child from the dangers of landscape plants, you need to protect the plants from your rambunctious children. Use garden fencing where possible and keep plants and children separate.

Image Credit: FIX

Pay Attention to Lawn Care

You will want the smoothest, most comfortable lawn possible before letting your children play outdoors. Remove as many rocks, sticks, and skin-irritating weeds as possible. It’s also important to make sure that children stay off the lawn after insecticides and fertilizers are used.

Cover Window Wells

Many homes have basement windows at or below ground level. Children can fall into the window well and can be injured. It is best to purchase window well covers to keep curious children from hurting themselves. These covers are surprisingly affordable and easy to find.

Image Credit: Rockwell Window Wells

Pool Safety

If you have a pool or any water features, including fish ponds, it is imperative that you keep curious toddlers away from them. Use a pool fence at least 48 inches in height with a non-climbable zone of 36 inches. Check your local statutes to make sure your pool fence meets requirements. Make sure the gate is self-closing and self-locking.

Playset Safety

Playsets and slides are a wonderful way to get your toddler engaged in outdoor play. These fun features need to be set up in a safe manner. First, make sure that your playset is anchored to the ground using concrete. Playsets that are simply set on the lawn will easily fall over and injure children. Use wood chips, mulch, or sand to cushion the area around your playset. Be sure to watch children carefully so that they will not eat the mulch or wood chips.

Using these tips, you can provide a safe and fun environment for young children to enjoy your backyard. Allow them to experience the benefits of playing outside while minimizing the risks.

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3 Secrets to Successful High Yield Gardening In Small Spaces

Did You Say, Successful High Yield Gardening In Small Spaces?

Would you believe me if I told you it is possible to grow over a quarter of a ton of large organic tasty vegetables from a gardening plot just 15 ft X 20 ft ? What about by using a 100 sq. ft. area you could grow 100 lbs of big juicy tomatoes ? I know it seems hard to believe but with the right planning and a little brain power these are very much possible!

The one big secret to  growing a high yield garden is taking the time to plan it correctly. It’s crucial to evaluate your planting area and the growth habit of what your growing if you want a highly productive garden.

Soil & Raised Beds

Any expert will probably agree that soil is one of the most important factors when it comes to growing massive amounts of vegetables. Rich organic soil and a lot of it is what plants love to grow long healthy roots in. When plants are growing healthy underground the result is large healthy growth above the ground resulting in more vegetables.

I can’t say enough good things about raised beds. Not only do they keep you off your knees and the fruit off the ground, but they allow for better drainage and more soil that is not compacted. Another great benefit of using raised beds is the space you save by the ability to fill in your entire planting area. No more rows and walking paths down the middle.

I could write a whole article on raised beds alone and how great the are, but we’ll save it for another day. For now just understand that raised beds are worth the extra effort up front.

Space Above

One thing that will make raised beds much more efficient is rounding the tops of your plants. Most full grown plants that are arched at the top will gain a foot extra of growing space. It might not seem like much but when you do the math over a whole entire garden the numbers add up. A planting area the is 100 s.f. can add an additional 20 percent of growing space!

The way you lie your plants or seeds out is the next key to growing a high yield garden. Squared rows in lines one behind the other is NOT what you want to be doing. Instead staggering is key giving the plants more room to grow while taking up the same space. By staggering and tapering the rows down in a triangular shape you can add over 10 percent more plants in your planting bed. Be sure to keep a close eye out for insect and diseases when planting in close quarters. I always spray my susceptible plants using one of these sprayers filled with an organic fungicide to stay one step ahead of the game.

 

Up Up & Away

Growing vertical is key when growing in small spaces. Vegetables like peas, cucumbers, and squash do very well on trellises and cages. Growing vertically also saves time by making it easier to see exactly where fruits are. Check out this article on gardening with trellises Lastly growing upward improves air-flow, which will reduce the spread of diseases.

It’s important to do learn which crops are compatible. Certain species won’t thrive with others so if your looking for a high yield garden this is key. So next time you think you don’t have the space to have a vegetable garden think again. It is definitely possible to do successful high yield gardening in small spaces.

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The 5 Best Garden Hoses

Best Wood Chippers – Top 5 Chipper Reviews & Buyers Guide

The Best Wood Chippers of 2017

Cleaning up your yard and getting rid of sticks, weeds and other waste is a very important maintenance task. The fresh look and feel of having an aesthetically pleasing and satisfying garden or yard, is most definitely appealing to homeowners. In this article you’ll learn what to look for when searching for the best wood chippers.

There are different ways to achieve this look of cleanliness. The most efficient way to not only clean up your yard, but also utilize the waste and recycle it using a wood chipper. A wood chipper will allow you to take a massive pile of sticks and debris in your yard, and turn it into a much more manageable pile of mulch that you can incorporate into your gardens and plants to help them grow and prosper, year after year.

The hard part is obviously going to be choosing which is the best wood chipper for your needs. There is an overwhelming number to choose from and it’s going to take some time and research to decide which one suits you the best. There are a few that stand out the most that should be considered if you are seriously contemplating purchasing one.

Lets dive right in with the top 5 picks, but keep reading to learn which style might be better for you. What mainly separates these machines is the power source, and we’ll get into the differences right after these top choices.

The Top 5 Wood Chipper Picks for 2017

GreenWorks 24052 15 Amp

This is a great, compact machine measuring at 33.7 x 19.9 x 15.8 inches but don’t let this smaller size fool you. This wood chipper is more powerful than you would think because it’s equipped with a 15-amp motor ready to work. It’s easy to maneuver around weighing in at only 30 pounds. This is a great wood chipper for work that you are doing close to a house or garage as opposed to larger areas of debris such as fields or forests.

The GreenWorks wood chipper is designed to take on the smaller type of debris like leaves and sticks. This unit should not be loaded up with anything that exceeds one and three-eighths inches. Don’t purchase this machine thinking you’ll be able to chip trees or large branches. It is a pretty specific unit for smaller jobs. It comes fully equipped with a paddle that you can use to load the wood chipper safely, a bag to collect the chipped debris, another set of blades and also a four-year warranty.

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Sun Joe Chipper Joe CJ601E 14-Amp

This wood chipper runs off an electric engine and the 14-Amp motor packs a serious punch when it comes to handling any and all types of small-medium sized debris. Sticks, leaves, branches and even thick brushes doesn’t stand a chance against this powerful machine. It is a chipper and shredder combo which allows for the variety of debris to be loaded up into it. It can be filled with anything measuring up to an inch and a half in diameter.

This wood chipper does come with a cord already attached. If more distance is needed it would be best to also use a longer extension cord to maximize mobility. This is also a compact and lightweight machine only weighing in at 32 pounds. Another important feature is that it runs much quieter than a gas-run engine, as do most electric machines.

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Tazz Chipper Shredders K32

This particular wood chipper could easily be considered the Hulk of all wood chippers. It is a powerful unit made for cleaning up branches and sticks and turning them into mulch and dusts. Purchase with peace of mind, as you’ll be protected with a 5-year warranty! The reason we would say this chipper is so powerful is because it can handle items that range in diameter up to 3 full inches! More than double the previous two machines.

One downfall is the noise level. This model tends to be pretty loud during use due to the powerful gas engine. It’s also a heavy chipper, weighing in at 121 pounds. If you have trouble maneuvering this chipper than a tow kit to move it might be best. An additional feature that comes with the Tazz if you wish to purchase separately, is a handy vacuum kit. This handy addition allows for easy pickup of debris and leaves.

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Patriot Products CSV-3100B 10 HP

If you tend to have a little bit of land or a yard measuring up to about 1 acre, give or take, this Patriot model may be one of the best wood chippers for you. It has a gas engine and steel knives that are treated with heat during production which strengthens the metal. You also have the ability to remove and re-sharpen them whenever you feel necessary.

When it comes to the output, this wood chipper is great for fast pace wood chipping. You won’t be replacing pulleys or belts on this work horse because there isnt any. This Patriot Product is about the size of a garbage can allowing for easy storage. It comes fully equipped with a debris bag to catch all of your mulch. Another option is to remove the bag and blow the wood chips to a desired area.

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Eco-Shredder ES1600 14 Amp

We have saved the best for last when it comes to diversity and what your able to do with this chipper. The Eco-Shredder has the ability to chop up debris, shred leaves and twigs and also mulch. You can’t go wrong with the beast! This wood chipper is also about the size of a garbage can making it easy to move and store.

It has 3 different feeding and loading areas – one on the top for the leaves and smaller items, a side compartment for branches and sticks and also a discharge chute that makes cleaning up the mulch, a breeze.  In case of an overfill or jam situation, there is also a protection switch that quickly turns the motor off to prevent damage in case something is malfunctioning.

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What To Look For In The Best Wood Chippers

There are a few important factors to keep in mind when it comes to buying and using a wood chipper. Obviously, first and foremost is safety. You should be sure to do your research and know exactly what kind of machine you are purchasing, before getting it home to use. It may seem simple, turn on, load, and mulch – in reality, it’s more difficult and intricate than that, but you can quickly get the hang of. Also wearing goggles and gloves while using is one of the first and most important lessons to learn before using.

Power Source

Be sure to examine the power source of the wood chipper you are considering buying. If it has a long cord attached to it care needs to be taken. Always be aware of the dangers of power cords. If you need to have an extension cord hooked up to it as well, it is smart to have a game plan as to how to safely run them.

Proper Use

Like we said before, using a wood chipper can be more complicated than you would think. It is more than just throwing some sticks in and watch it work – in order for sticks and leaves to be loaded properly, you need to make sure they are not too big or too crooked to be placed in the machine. Also, you will definitely have to do some manual labor beforehand like cleaning up your yard and composing a pile of debris that will fit in your chipper,

 Power Source

These wood chippers are a convenient, handy piece of machinery. They can definitely help spruce up your yard eliminating sticks and debris. However, there are some overall downfalls when it comes to owning a wood chipper. Purchasing a gas-powered wood chipper is going to come with some noisy side effects. There is no way to muffle or quiet the noise so that is something to keep in mind – especially if you live in a neighborhood or have houses close by while your working.

Like any car or tractor that you power with gas, comes the pollution aspect of it. With gas engines also comes a gas tank which means these machines tend to be heavier and bulkier to move around. On the flip side, using electric wood chippers are quieter, but the power they possess and amount of debris they can mulch up, tends to be less than gas-powered ones.

Conclusion

Any one of the above best wood chippers you end up buying is going to get the job done, it might just take a bit longer. Researching beforehand and purchasing the best one for the job you have in mind, is very important. Quality should be your top priority so reading product reviews and guides can steer you in the right direction. These machines are not for the faint of heart. They should be operated by someone who is confident in their abilities and understand the dangers. Wood chipper safety should be taken seriously. Learn how tragedy struck and what could happen is used incorrectly in this article. Hastily buying one could lead to disappointing results. We are confident that this article will have you well on your way to an educated and smart purchase.

 

 

 

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Best Electric Chainsaws & Buying Guide

GOOD & BAD OF THE BEST ELECTRIC CHAIN SAWS

A chainsaw is one of the most powerful pieces of equipment you can have in your arsenal of gardening tools. These extremely handy yet dangerous tools come in several different types. Gas powered, electric and battery powered. Today we’re going to dive into some of the best electric chainsaws while looking at the pros & cons.

When owning a top rated electric powered saw you’ll realize, it’s a low maintenance tool which is a lot less noisy than most gas models. One advantage of using an engine not powered by gasoline is that they’re environmentally friendly due to the lack of toxic fumes. Second they are cheaper to operate without the constant purchase of fuel.

The drawback however is the inability to cut and buck larger size trees. The reduced power compared to most gas models is what sets them apart. With more power and speed comes more danger, so if your not experienced and confident than an electric saw might be the perfect solution.

If you are the type who likes to work around the yard, pruning or trimming small – medium trees, than an electric chainsaw is best for you. Electric is simpler, almost maintenance free and much cheaper than chain saws that have gas engines.

Chain saws are extremely versatile, as they can finish tasks which are seemingly endless if you were to do by hand. Extreme caution must always be taken when using power tools, especially ones with moving blades. Its careful use and proper care saves lives. This frame of mind helps reduce careless injuries and unnecessary repairs ensuring a proper functioning and efficient tool for many years. The lack of care and improper maintenance can result in mechanical issues along with serious injuries.

The standard image of a chain saw is a high power gas saw, which requires oil to run. They are an extremely powerful tool, and produce lots of fumes and noise, resulting in a less than ideal solution for homeowners. This is why more and more people are going in the direction of electric tools. To learn more one of the leaders in the chain saw market read this.

Some of the best electric chainsaws on the other hand, are silent and pollution free. These small useful power tools can offer significant benefits around the home. What are the benefits, when it comes to an electric saw purchase?

No More Gasoline

Because these saws are powered electrically, there is no need for fuel or engine oil. The only oil needed is bar oil. Bar oil is filled in a reservoir which automatically lubricates the chain.  No more costly trips to the fill station and say goodbye to spilt smelly gasoline.

Say Goodbye To Spark Plugs

Anyone who has ever tried to start a traditional chain saw with a spark plug would certainly appreciate an electric start. Often times gas saws have problems starting resulting in heavy pulling over and over. This type of repetitive hard pulling leaves even the most fit, tired and fatigued. There’s nothing like the press of a button and your ready to work

Better For The Environment With No Emissions

One of the most recognizable aspects of a chain saw (with the exception of noise) is the exhaust. It is extremely important, and could also be very dangerous for you and the people around you. However, electric chainsaws have no exhaust. This could be an essential element for both those who care about the environment and hearing loss.

Some Possible Disadvantages

While any one of the best electric chainsaws below are exceptional tools, they have some disadvantages. First of all, they are not as powerful as their gas counterparts. Secondly, you will only we sawing where you have a power source. Consequently no cutting in the woods or roads that aren’t close to a house or generator.

More Advantages of the Best Electric Chainsaws

However, for what they are, these are exceptional low cost investment for several reasons, and can help with your lawn and garden maintenance. By having this tool in your position and ready to go, you’ll find yourself doing those jobs you’ve been putting off.

While many people appreciate the convenience and portability of gas saws, there are many people who are beginning to discover the benefits of working with a top rated  chainsaw. Units that depend on gas for power are much heavier. In addition, they often require a high level of maintenance. You’ll be avoiding things like filter changes and costly carburetor cleaning and repair.

If you only depend on a chainsaw for household tasks from time to time, it may be best to choose a top rated electric chainsaw from our picks below.

Many people use chainsaws to cut large trees or for commercial use. If you are planning on engaging in this type of tree work, it’s definitely best to choose a gas saw. Check out these larger gas powered saws that will get the job done. Even the best electric chainsaw will not be able keep up with these types of larger tasks or furthermore a broke chainsaw.

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TOP RATED ELECTRIC CHAINSAWS

1. WORX WG303.1 16-INCH CHAIN SAW

Best Features:

The WORX WG303.1. A great feature on the WORX WG202.1 is the saws automatic chain lubrication system with an oil level gauge. The automatic chain system tension works great to  decrease the likelihood of excessive tightening, which can be problematic. Use your electric saw worry free with the 3 year manufacturer warranty.

Weakness: It’s a little tight between the top handles and the chain brake and this unintentionally results in frequent activation of the safety shutoff function.

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2. REMINGTON RM1425 LIMB N TRIM 8 AMP 14-INCH ELECTRIC CHAINSAW

Best Features:

The Remington RM1425 Limb N Trim is an electric chainsaw that has power cord along with a 14 inch low-kickback bar. The saw has an 8 amp electric motor that makes it great for trimming and cutting smaller trees and branches. It has a push-button oiler that lets you add oil to your bar with an easy-to-view oil reservoir for gauging your oil level. Without proper oiling you can ruin a new chain in no time.

Weakness: There have been instances of chain oil leaks, this is an easy fix by laying the unit with its chain side down. The chain tension adjustment can be a little awkward until you get use to it. Improper chain adjustment can result in a chain that’s too tight or dangerously loose.

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3.OREGON CS1500 SELF-SHARPENING ELECTRIC CHAIN SAW

Best Features:

The OREGON CS1500 Self-Sharpening Electric Chain Saw, an electric operated chainsaw with an 18 inch bar and chain with reduced-kickback. This saw is perfect for many different tasks that require quick cutting. The CS1500 has enough power to cut through firewood and also trimming and felling through small trees, furthermore it can also cut through trees that are 16 inches in diameter

Weakness:

There have been comments from other users that complain about the chain easily falling off. However, this might be a user error or an isolated issue since this occurrence has rarely been reported.

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Remington RM1025SPS Chainsaw – Pole saw Combo

Best Features:

The 2-in-1 pole saw/chainsaw features an adjustable pole extending up to 10-fee. The 8-amp electric motor allows for quick and easy cutting, while the low-kickback, 10-inch bar make pruning an easy task.The pole saw’s easy flip & lock clamps allow for immediate disconnect from the pole. As a result you actually have two awesome tools in one.

Weakness:

Using a pole saw can be awkward as the weight of the saw at the end of the pole can cause arm fatigue rather quickly. It’s best to stop once fatigued and restart after resting. Using a pole saw takes a little getting use to, its best to let the saw do all the work and not force the cut.

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If you’ve used another electric saw that you think should be on the list we would love to hear about it in the comment section below. Hopefully we’ve made your decision as to which chainsaw is best for you an easier one. To learn more about chainsaws and cutting trees this forum on Arboriculture is a great place to check out. If you missed our last post on the best wood chippers you can check it out right here, it was a good one! We appreciate your stopping by and if you have feedback on any of the saws we reviewed it’s appreciated.

Until next time, Happy sawing!

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